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How to Choose a Criminal Defense Lawyer

By Roberta Silverglate, California Business Journal

If you are arrested for DUI, theft, drug crimes, or face any other criminal charges, you could be penalized with a lengthy jail or prison sentence plus hefty fines. If you are convicted of the criminal charges, they will be on your record, haunting your future for years to come.

You will be read your rights, which includes having the court appoint an attorney to represent you. However, public defenders often have massive caseloads and may lack the experience to defend against your charges. You will want to choose your own criminal defense attorney to represent your case.

There are many defense attorneys in Miami, and since time is of the essence regarding criminal charges, you’ll need to find one right away. These tips will help you choose a criminal defense lawyer who will be an excellent match for your needs.

Check Their Experience Level

The lawyer you choose to defend you must be well-versed in criminal law. They should have courtroom experience and previous experience representing people with similar charges to yours. A lawyer who focuses on DUI cases may be great for those charges, but he may lack the experience to defend against theft charges.

Board Certification

You might be in a hurry to obtain legal representation, but be sure that the defense attorney you choose is board-certified. This provides you with an extra measure of assurance that they are proficient in their defense skills. You can look up how many jury trials they have been through and check their reputation. The key skill you want is aggressive defense in the courtroom to fight any accusations.

Availability

Since time is such a critical factor in criminal law cases, you must choose a criminal defense attorney who is readily available. They should take your calls or respond to you quickly when you have questions. Any attorney who doesn’t make time for their clients might be too preoccupied to provide a robust defense.

Take Advantage of the Free Consultation

Almost every criminal defense attorney will provide a free initial consultation that allows you to discuss your case. You should prepare a list of questions to ask about their services, what to expect, and how they can serve you. Ask about sentencing alternatives and make sure they have defended a case like yours before.

Even the top-rated defense attorney might not be the best fit for you if they have not represented defendants facing similar charges. You must use this free session wisely to gather as much information as you can before choosing your lawyer.

Ask About Their Fees

Unless you choose a public defender, you will need to pay a criminal defense attorney. It is wise to understand their fee structure before you hire them. You may be tempted to choose a lawyer who has the lowest fees, but you should focus on the one who has the best skill match.

You’re buying their experience, which could make a big difference in your case. Your entire reputation and future is at stake when you have criminal charges looming over your head. You must seek a criminal defense attorney with the skills to fight your charges, who is available, and has a high success rate.

It will take some work on your part, and you will need to do it quickly, but it is an important decision that has the potential to affect your entire life. Choose wisely and you may be able to put this unpleasant experience in the past and leave it there.